Medication Administration: Best Practices for Adding New Medications

Objectives

Upon completion of this course, participants will be able to:

1. Identify the critical steps involved in safely adding new medications to a resident’s treatment regimen, including reviewing current medications and health status.
2. Explain how to assess the need for new medications, considering the resident’s current condition, goals of care, and potential benefits versus risks.
3. Implement strategies to avoid medication interactions and adverse effects when introducing new treatments, ensuring the safety and well-being of residents.
4. Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to develop comprehensive care plans that integrate new medications and adjust existing treatments as necessary.
5. Educate residents and caregivers about the purpose, administration, and potential side effects of new medications, ensuring they are informed and engaged in the process.
6. Monitor and follow up on the impact of new medications to promptly identify and address any issues that arise after the introduction of the treatment.